EP#03 | Meet Kate Vannelli, conservationist and world traveler, currently leading the Living With Big Cats initiative for the World Wildlife Fund. In this episode, Kate shares her experiences working with big cats across the globe, from Namibia to the Himalayas and Tanzania.

Listen to stories of cheetah conservation, snow leopard ecotourism, and the cultural and emotional connections humans have with apex predators.

Kate and Emma discuss human-wildlife conflict, the impact of policy, and how animals like P-22, the famed Hollywood mountain lion, inspire global efforts for coexistence.

About the Guest: Kate Vannelli, Conservationist and WWF Program Lead

Kate Vannelli’s conservation journey spans continents, focusing on big cats like jaguars, lions, and snow leopards. She holds degrees in Environmental Science and Conservation & Rural Development and has worked with renowned organizations, including the Cheetah Conservation Fund and Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust. Kate is passionate about addressing human-wildlife conflict, promoting sustainable ecotourism, and connecting people to nature through her art and advocacy.

About the Animals: Big cats—jaguars, lions, leopards, snow leopards, and cheetahs—are apex predators that play an essential role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. These majestic creatures are more than icons of the wild; they are symbols of resilience, coexistence, and the challenges of conservation.

Episode Takeaways:

1. Human-wildlife conflict is a global issue that requires nuanced, culturally sensitive solutions.
2. Big cats like P-22 symbolize our connection to nature and inspire policy changes for coexistence.
3. Ecotourism and community-based conservation initiatives foster tolerance and support wildlife protection.
4. Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local communities is essential for effective conservation strategies.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction to Human Animals and Kate Vannelli [00:01:00] Kate’s journey into conservation and her passion for big cats [00:05:00] The fascinating story of P-22 and its impact on wildlife policy [00:08:00] Examining human tolerance for big cats across cultures [00:14:00] Snow leopard ecotourism and community-driven conservation [00:19:00] Strategies for managing human-wildlife conflict [00:24:00] The importance of predator-prey dynamics in healthy ecosystems [00:36:00] Ethical challenges in wildlife trade and exotic animal ownership [00:50:00] Reflections on zoos, ecotourism, and human-nature relationships [01:03:00] Fun fact: The mysterious “prickle” in a lion’s tail tuft

Quotes

1. "Whether we like it or not, we have an emotional and spiritual connection with big cats.” – Kate Vannelli
2. “P-22’s story shows how one mountain lion can ripple through policy and inspire coexistence.” – Kate Vannelli
3. “If you’re part of a landscape with predators, you’re part of something bigger.” – Kate Vannelli
4. “Our relationship with the world around us is what makes us human.” – Kate Vannelli

Resources:

1. World Wildlife Fund - Living With Big Cats
2. Kate Vannelli, World Wildlife Fund on LinkedIn
3. Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust
4. Cheetah Conservation Fund
5. Mikko’s Choice
6. Human Animal’s Podcast YouTube